Classic Vodka Martini Cocktail Recipe

James Bond was onto something — and no, we don't mean hot on the trail of Dr. No or onto the vile plans of Alex Trevelyan. We mean he was onto something with his choice of beverage and its method of preparation. While the original martini was made with gin, the vodka martini has been around for so many generations that calling it a "classic" is more than justified. Indeed, according to Newsweek, Bond did in most cases specifically drink vodka martinis. And of course, he asked for them  — say it with us — "Shaken, not stirred."

Here, chef and recipe developer Jaime Shelbert of Wholly Nourished lays out an elegantly simple preparation for this classic and classy drink. "A vodka martini is such a classic, how could you not want to learn how to make one?" she says. Follow the simple steps and you'll shake up your own cocktail fit for anyone, be it an international spy, or a spouse or buddy from work.

Sure, sometimes the moment calls for a martini, and in those moments, you can make a fine drink without any forethought. But if you have a sneaking suspicion a cocktail may be called, plan for it ahead of time.

"Martinis are known for being ice cold," says Shelbert. "I like to place the vodka, cocktail glasses, and cocktail shaker in the freezer prior to making martinis." That way, there will be almost no melting of the ice, leaving you a perfectly cold drink.